Tongue Thrust Treatment
Correct tongue posture and swallowing patterns with evidence-based orofacial myofunctional therapy. Serving Dallas, TX and online nationwide.
Understanding Tongue Thrust
Tongue thrust is a pattern where the tongue pushes forward against or between the teeth during swallowing, speaking, or at rest. In infants, this forward tongue movement is normal and helps with breastfeeding. However, as children grow, this pattern should transition to a mature swallow where the tongue rests on the roof of the mouth and pushes upward (not forward) during swallowing.
When the infantile swallowing pattern persists, it can exert significant pressure on the teeth — research suggests we swallow between 500 and 1,000 times per day — contributing to dental misalignment, speech sound errors, and other orofacial concerns.
Signs of Tongue Thrust
- Tongue pushes forward against or between the teeth during swallowing
- Open mouth resting posture with tongue visible between teeth
- Lisp or difficulty producing /s/, /z/, /t/, /d/, /n/, /l/ sounds
- Open bite or other orthodontic concerns
- Messy eating or difficulty with certain food textures
- Mouth breathing during the day or while sleeping
- Dental crowding or teeth that shift after orthodontic treatment
How We Treat Tongue Thrust
As a Qualified Orofacial Myologist (QOM), Laura Friedman provides structured myofunctional therapy to retrain the muscles of the tongue, lips, and face. Treatment focuses on:
Correct Tongue Resting Posture
Training the tongue to rest on the roof of the mouth (the "spot") instead of pushing against or between the teeth.
Proper Swallowing Pattern
Retraining the swallow so the tongue pushes upward against the palate rather than forward against the teeth.
Lip Seal and Nasal Breathing
Establishing habitual lip closure and nasal breathing to support correct tongue posture and overall orofacial balance.
Muscle Strengthening
Targeted exercises to strengthen the tongue, lip, and cheek muscles needed to maintain correct patterns throughout the day.
Tongue Thrust and Orthodontics
Many orthodontists recognize that tongue thrust can undermine orthodontic treatment. If the tongue continues to push against the teeth after braces are removed, teeth may shift back toward their original positions. Myofunctional therapy addresses the underlying muscle pattern, supporting long-term orthodontic stability.
We frequently collaborate with orthodontists, dentists, and other healthcare providers to ensure a coordinated approach to treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Concerned About Tongue Thrust?
Schedule a free consultation to learn how myofunctional therapy can help.